Buyer’s Guide

The Best Guide for Buying Shipping Containers

Shipping containers are now one of the most useful and cost-effective ways to store and transport items across many industries. Whether you need a container for a construction site, commercial storage, farming, or for container conversion, knowing the key features and available options can help you make the right choice. This guide provides clear and comprehensive information to help every customer make an informed and confident decision before purchasing a shipping container.

Learn About the Different Kinds of Shipping Containers

20-Foot Standard Containers

  • Ideal for small businesses, home storage, or small job sites.

  • Affordable, easy to move, and extremely versatile.

  • Great for storing tools, equipment, furniture, and small inventory.

40-Foot Containers

  • Twice as long as a 20-foot container, offering more storage space.

  • Best for transporting large quantities or long-term storage.

  • Suitable for warehouses, factories, logistics companies, and exporters.

Specialized Containers

High Cube Containers
  • Provides an extra foot of vertical space compared to regular containers.

  • Perfect for large items, tall equipment, or converting into a container home.

  • Commonly used in construction, retail, and industrial sectors.

Refrigerated Containers (Reefer)
  • Equipped with temperature control systems for perishable goods.

  • Used extensively in the food, pharmaceutical, and cold-chain logistics industries.

  • Ideal for storing frozen or temperature-sensitive items.

Open Top Containers
  • Open-roof design, ideal for tall or heavy loads.

  • Used for transporting large machines, building materials, and cranes.

Flat Rack Containers
  • No side walls, perfect for transporting large equipment, vehicles, or oversized loads.

  • Frequently used in shipping by large companies and logistics operations.


Picking the Right Condition for Your Container

New (One-Trip) Containers

  • Nearly brand new, with minimal wear and tear.

  • Long lifespan and strong structural integrity.

  • Perfect for converting into offices, stores, or premium storage spaces.

Used Containers

  • Economical for general storage needs.

  • Available in different grades:

    • Cargo Worthy (CW): Safe for transport and export.

    • Wind and Water Tight (WWT): Suitable for long-term storage.

  • Always check for rust, dents, and door alignment when purchasing used containers.


Things to Consider Before You Buy

Size Requirements

  • Choose from 20ft, 40ft, or High Cube units depending on your available space and storage needs.

Quality of Materials

  • Ensure the container is made of Corten steel for durability and weather resistance.

Door Operation

  • For safety, make sure the doors open and close smoothly and can be securely locked.

Flooring Condition

  • Marine-grade plywood floors are durable and long-lasting.

Certifications

  • If you’re shipping cargo, check that the container has a valid CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate.


Delivery and Site Preparation

Check Access Points

  • Ensure that delivery trucks can easily access your location.

Flat Ground

  • Place the container on a level surface, such as blocks, gravel, or concrete.

Room for Offloading

  • Make sure there is sufficient space for offloading, especially if using tilt-bed trucks or cranes.


How to Work with a Supplier You Can Trust

Choosing a reliable supplier ensures that you get a genuine, structurally sound container with no hidden charges. A reputable company should offer:

  • Transparent pricing

  • Verified photos of containers

  • Detailed condition reports

  • Fast delivery times

  • Post-sale support

When you buy from a trusted company like CONTAINERS SHIPPING EXPORT LLC, you can be confident that your transaction is secure, and you’ll receive high-quality containers that meet your specific needs.